SLS Hotels & Residences, part of the world-leading Accor group, today announced the opening of renowned contemporary steakhouse Carna by Dario Cecchini, on the 74th floor, at SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, the seventh SLS hotel in the world. The official launch of Carna marks the highly anticipated opening of the world-famous butcher’s very first dining concept in the region and second globally following the success the first Carna at SLS Baha Mar.
Carna was conceptualised and created by Dario Cecchini, the award-winning eighth-generation butcher, hailing from the village of Panzano in the Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy. Upon taking over his father’s business, Dario discovered his life-long mission – to protect the art of butchery due to his profound belief that all cuts of meat can and must be utilised when cooked properly – thus eliminating waste and promoting sustainability. This artistic ritual and authentic craftsmanship of meat has been passed down through generations and is celebrated as the heart of Carna. As a butcher for over 43 years, Cecchini was taught that one piece of meat can be used in many ways.
Chadi Farhat, sbe’s Chief Operating Officer states, “At SLS Dubai, we’re honoured to have the distinct privilege of partnering again with the internationally-acclaimed butcher Dario Cecchini. As an industry pioneer, we have profound respect for his craft, along with Tuscany’s culinary traditions, and we’re excited to finally launch the very first Carna in the Middle East under his leadership.”
Dario Cecchini states, “I come from a small village in Tuscany, where my family have been butchers for 250 years, a trade that we pass on from father to son. I am the 8th generation, and I’ve been a butcher with pride for my whole life. To be here in Dubai, in this beautiful space known as Carna, is not just an honor for me, but a dream come true. I feel my dream has come true because I find my myself in an energetic heart of a city, surrounded by people that give me courage and joy and warmth. Carna brings the story of my family, the cuisine of my family and my family as a butcher, and this for me is an honor.”
Carna’s menu highlights prime and supreme cuts of the finest meat and steaks with a focus on natural, fresh ingredients. Implementing Cecchini’s wealth of wisdom and artistry, the Dubai-based Carna will honour the traditions and the heritage that the society of butchers, that Dario hails from, follow – primarily protecting the art of butchery – whereby all cuts of meat are used for consumption, and nothing is wasted.
Signature dishes at Carna include Cecchini’s household specialties starting with the ‘Chianti Sushi’, Dario’s personal take on a tartare, placing the unrivalled cut of bed centre stage along with Dario’s own olive oil. Simple yet memorable. Another star item on the menu is “The Bistecca alla Fiorentina”, a porterhouse dish that initially propelled Dario Cecchini to much recognition and fame. And finally, one can order the Bollito Cart, a cart of boiled meat, that is served tableside. Following the meaning of ‘to boil’ in Italian.
Carna also serves fresh seafood such as chucked oysters, King Crab and a seafood and shellfish tower ‘Fit for a King’. An extensive international wine list is also available.
Designed by Bishop Designs, Carna showcases modern design elements paired with bold, earthy tones and colours. As you step through, a grand theatrical bar, with the intriguing pop of a rich red, resides at the left, where you’ll find the largest range of whiskey available in the Middle East, boasting over 150 types of whisky. To your right, a retail area presenting condiments from Dario’s personal line are available for purchase. And for the ultimate culinary adventure of the evening, the dining area offers you a warm welcome, thanks to green, jade-like bricks coupled with velvet green banquettes. With geometrically linear chandeliers suspended from above, rose gold accents found throughout the space will catch your eye.
Along with an aging chamber where the finest cuts of beefs are proudly exhibited, a private dining rooms provide the perfect ambiance for intimate gatherings.
Open daily from 7 PM to 1 AM.
The first SLS hotel in the region, developed in collaboration with World of Wonders Real Estate, opened its doors to hotel guests and residents, on April 5, 2021. Developed in collaboration with international architecture firm Aedas, SLS Dubai features 254 expertly designed hotel rooms by acclaimed designer Paul Bishop, 371 residential units and 321 hotel apartments.
